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Posted 03/21/2013 3:40 pm
I got a reply from Littleton, including a lesson on toning.
Even before I got the above reply I decided to just keep the coin. Like folks have said, I'd be risking a ding or scratch with a replacement anyway. I did really appreciate getting such a thorough response from Littleton. Their regular prices may be a bit steep, but their customer service appears to be stellar.
Quote:
Thank you for contacting us regarding your recent order.
The "tarnish" you are referring to is called toning, which is a natural process that begins when a coin is made. Toning does not affect the grade or value of your coin.
Below is some information regarding toning, for your reference.
Every coin begins to tone as soon as it leaves the press, because all coins contain reactive metals. Over a period of time, coins chemically react with substances in their environment.
For silver coins, the result is a surface film of varying intensity that gives part or all of the coin a range of solid or multi-colored iridescent hues on the surface. We have found that coins with a higher silver content, such as the 90% silver coins and the 99.9% Silver American Eagles, do tend to tone quicker.
Many collectors prefer toning because it is one indicator that the coin is still in original Uncirculated condition. Toned coins have been described as "nature's works of art", and can command higher prices.
Another feature commonly found on Peace dollars and modern Uncirculated silver coins is white to yellow "staining". This natural occurrence is a result of the minting process.
Improper cleaning, more than anything else, has harmed valuable coins. High-quality Uncirculated and Proof coins should never be cleaned, as cleaning can cause permanent loss of original mint finish and color (and permanent loss of value). Experts can easily detect a cleaned coin. Most experienced collectors and dealers agree that circulated coins also should not be cleaned, except by experts for specific restorative or protective purposes.
Littleton Coin Company has a 45-Day Money Back Guarantee of Satisfaction which states "You must be completely satisfied with every purchase you make from Littleton. If not, simply return it within 45 days for a prompt exchange or refund, whichever you prefer." You may also request your refund amount be applied to a new order.
When making your return, please complete the back of your invoice with your preferences (exchange, refund, or credit on account) and include it with the merchandise.
Please note that we cannot and do not guarantee that coins will not be toned.
We hope this information is helpful. If we may be of further assistance, please contact us through email or by calling our friendly Customer Service Department toll-free at 1-800-645-3122, Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM Eastern Time.
Have a nice day!
Thank you for contacting us regarding your recent order.
The "tarnish" you are referring to is called toning, which is a natural process that begins when a coin is made. Toning does not affect the grade or value of your coin.
Below is some information regarding toning, for your reference.
Every coin begins to tone as soon as it leaves the press, because all coins contain reactive metals. Over a period of time, coins chemically react with substances in their environment.
For silver coins, the result is a surface film of varying intensity that gives part or all of the coin a range of solid or multi-colored iridescent hues on the surface. We have found that coins with a higher silver content, such as the 90% silver coins and the 99.9% Silver American Eagles, do tend to tone quicker.
Many collectors prefer toning because it is one indicator that the coin is still in original Uncirculated condition. Toned coins have been described as "nature's works of art", and can command higher prices.
Another feature commonly found on Peace dollars and modern Uncirculated silver coins is white to yellow "staining". This natural occurrence is a result of the minting process.
Improper cleaning, more than anything else, has harmed valuable coins. High-quality Uncirculated and Proof coins should never be cleaned, as cleaning can cause permanent loss of original mint finish and color (and permanent loss of value). Experts can easily detect a cleaned coin. Most experienced collectors and dealers agree that circulated coins also should not be cleaned, except by experts for specific restorative or protective purposes.
Littleton Coin Company has a 45-Day Money Back Guarantee of Satisfaction which states "You must be completely satisfied with every purchase you make from Littleton. If not, simply return it within 45 days for a prompt exchange or refund, whichever you prefer." You may also request your refund amount be applied to a new order.
When making your return, please complete the back of your invoice with your preferences (exchange, refund, or credit on account) and include it with the merchandise.
Please note that we cannot and do not guarantee that coins will not be toned.
We hope this information is helpful. If we may be of further assistance, please contact us through email or by calling our friendly Customer Service Department toll-free at 1-800-645-3122, Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM Eastern Time.
Have a nice day!
Even before I got the above reply I decided to just keep the coin. Like folks have said, I'd be risking a ding or scratch with a replacement anyway. I did really appreciate getting such a thorough response from Littleton. Their regular prices may be a bit steep, but their customer service appears to be stellar.
